#4 MECHANICS OF DEFORMABLE

BODIES

FLEX Course Material

Explain the basic
torsional stress and
deformation theory
Compute torsional stress
and the angle of twist
when the body is
subjected to applied
torque.

TORSION
Sir Marvin Bartido

Solve engineering
problems involving
torsion
Compute the shear stress
and angle of twist of solid
noncircular shafts and
thin-walled tubes due to
applied torque
Determine the torque
capacity of flanged bolt
coupling
Marvin M. Bartido, RCE
Compute the shear stress
and deformation in helical
springs

2ND TERM AY 2020-2021

 I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Torsion of Circular Shaft

Torque is a moment that tends to twist a member about its

longitudinal axis.
Its effect is of primary concern in the design of axles or drive
shafts used in vehicles and machinery.

Assumptions
Sir Marvin Bartido

The figure shows the deformation of a circular shaft that is

subjected to a twisting couple (torque) T.
During the deformation, the cross sections are not distorted in
any manner – they remain plane, and the radius r does not change. In
addition, the length L of the shaft remains constant.
Each cross section rotates as a rigid entity about the axis of the
shaft.

2
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Consider a differential element of the shaft.

Sir Marvin Bartido

As the shaft deforms, the two cross sections of the segment rotate
about the x-axis.
Because the cross sections are separated by an infinitesimal distance
dx, the difference in their rotations, denoted by 𝑑𝜃, is also infinitesimal.
As the cross sections undergo the relative rotation 𝑑𝜃, CD deforms
into the helix CD’.
By observing the distortion of the element, we recognize that the
helix angle 𝛾 is the shear strain of the element.
From the geometry, we obtain 𝐷𝐷′ = 𝜌𝑑𝜃 = 𝛾𝑑𝑥, from which the
shear strain is
𝑑𝜃
𝛾= 𝜌
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝜃
is the angle of twist per unit length, where 𝜃 is expressed in radians
𝑑𝑥

From Hooke’s law

𝜏 = 𝐺𝛾
𝑑𝜃
𝜏=𝐺 𝜌
𝑑𝑥

The shear stress varies linearly with the radial distance 𝜌 from the axis
of the shaft.

3
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

The variation of the shear stress acting on the cross section is illustrated in
the figure. The maximum shear stress, denoted by 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 , occurs at the surface of
the shaft.

Equilibrium
Sir Marvin Bartido

For the shaft to be in equilibrium, the resultant of the shear stress acting
on a cross section must be equal to the internal torque T acing on that cross
section.

𝑑𝜃
The shear force acting on the differential area 𝑑𝐴 is 𝑑𝑃 = 𝜏 𝑑𝐴 =
𝐺 𝜌
𝑑𝐴, directed perpendicular to the radius.
𝑑𝑥
𝑑𝜃 2
Hence, the moment (torque) of 𝑑𝑃 about the center O is ρ𝑑𝑃 =
𝐺 𝜌 𝑑𝐴.
𝑑𝑥
Summing up all the differential elements across the cross-sectional area A
and equating the result to the internal torque yields
𝑑𝜃
𝐺
𝑑𝑥
‫𝜌 ׬‬2 𝑑𝐴 = 𝑇

where ‫𝜌 ׬‬2 𝑑𝐴 is the polar moment of inertia 𝐽.

𝑑𝜃 𝑇
=
𝑑𝑥 𝐽𝐺
𝑇
𝑑𝜃 = 𝑑𝑥
𝐽𝐺
𝐿 𝑇
𝜃 = ‫׬‬0 𝑑𝑥
𝐽𝐺
𝑇𝐿
𝜃 = (angle of twist)
𝐽𝐺

4
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Notes on the Computation of Angle of Twist

• It is common practice to let the units of G determine the units of the
other terms. In U.S. Customary system, the consistent units are G
(psi), T (lb-in), L (in.) and J in (𝑖𝑛4 ); in the SI system, the consistent
units are G (Pa), T (N-m), L (m) and J in (𝑚4 ).
• The unit of 𝜃 is radians, regardless of which system of units is used in
the computation.
• In problems where it is convenient to use a sign convention for
torques and angles of twist, we represent torques as vectors (we use
double-headed arrows to represent couples and rotations) using the
right-hand rule. A torque vector is considered positive if it points
Sir Marvin Bartido

away from the cross section, and negative if it points toward the
cross-section. The same sign convention applies to the angle of twist
𝜃.

5
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Shear Stress in Circular Shafts

𝑑𝜃 𝑇 𝑑𝜃 𝑇
From = , we see that 𝐺 = . Upon substitution into 𝜏 =
𝑑𝑥 𝐽𝐺 𝑑𝑥 𝐽
𝑑𝜃
𝐺 𝜌 , gives the shear stress acting at the distance 𝜌 from the
𝑑𝑥
center of the shaft:
𝑇𝜌
𝜏=
𝐽
The maximum shear stress is found by replacing 𝜌 by the radius
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝑟 of the shaft
𝑇𝑟
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
𝐽

𝑇𝑟
Substituting the formulas of 𝐽 to 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = , we obtain:
𝐽
2𝑇 16𝑇
Solid shaft: 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = =
𝜋𝑟 3 𝜋𝑑 3
2𝑇𝑅 16𝑇𝐷
Hollow shaft: 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = =
𝜋 𝑅4 −𝑟 4 𝜋 𝐷4 −𝑑4
These equations are called torsion formulas.

6
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

The torsion formula can be applied using the following procedure:

Internal Loading
• Section the shaft perpendicular to its axis at the point where the
shear stress is to be determined, and use the necessary free-body
diagram and equations of equilibrium to obtain the internal torque at
the section.

Section Property
• Calculate the polar moment of inertia of the cross-sectional area.
Sir Marvin Bartido

Shear Stress
• Specify the radial distance 𝜌, measured from the center of the cross
section to the point where the shear stress is to be found. Then apply
𝑇𝜌
the torsion formula 𝜏 = or if the maximum shear stress is to be
𝐽
𝑇𝑟
determined use 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = . When substituting the data, make sure to
𝐽
use a consistent set of units.

7
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. The shaft shown in Fig. 5–11a is supported by two bearings and is

subjected to three torques. Determine the shear stress developed at
points A and B, located at section a–a of the shaft, Fig. 5–11c.

Find: Shear Stress.

shear stress developed at points A and B
Since point A is at 𝜌 = 0.75 𝑖𝑛,
Sir Marvin Bartido

Solution: 𝑇𝜌
𝜏𝐴 =
Internal Torque. 𝐽
The bearing reactions on the shaft are zero, (12.5 𝑘𝑖𝑝−𝑖𝑛)(0.75 𝑖𝑛)
provided the shaft’s weight is neglected. 𝜏𝐴 =
Furthermore, the applied torques satisfy 0.49701 𝑖𝑛4
moment equilibrium about the shaft’s axis.
𝜏𝐴 = 18.863 𝑘𝑖𝑝𝑠ൗ𝑖𝑛2 𝑜𝑟 𝑘𝑠𝑖
The internal torque at section a–a will be
determined from the free-body diagram of
the left segment,
Likewise for point B, at 𝜌 =
0.15 𝑖𝑛,
𝑇𝜌
𝜏𝐵 = 𝐽
(12.5 𝑘𝑖𝑝−𝑖𝑛)(0.15 𝑖𝑛)
𝜏𝐵 =
0.49701 𝑖𝑛4
𝜏𝐵 = 3.773 𝑘𝑠𝑖
we have
σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0
42.5 − 30 − 𝑇 = 0
𝑇 = 12.5 𝑘𝑖𝑝 − 𝑖𝑛

Section Property.
The polar moment of inertia for the shaft is
𝜋𝑟 4
𝐽= 2
𝜋(0.75 𝑖𝑛)4
𝐽= 2
𝐽 = 0.49701 𝑖𝑛4

8
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

2. What is the minimum diameter of a solid steel shaft that will not
twist more than 2° in a 5-m length when subjected to a torque of
10000 N-m? What is the maximum shearing stress developed? For
steel, use G = 83 GPa.

Find:
minimum diameter
maximum shearing stress

Solution:
Sir Marvin Bartido

minimum diameter
𝑇𝐿
𝜃 = 𝐽𝐺
𝜋
2° × 180° =
10000 103 𝑁∙𝑚𝑚 (5000 𝑚𝑚)
𝜋𝑑4
32
(83000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2 )

𝑑 = 115.15 𝑚𝑚

maximum shearing stress

𝑇𝑟
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝐽
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
115.15 𝑚𝑚
10000 103 𝑁∙𝑚𝑚 2
𝜋(115.15 𝑚𝑚)4
32
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 33.36 𝑀𝑃𝑎

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 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

3. Figure (a) shows a 2-in-diameter solid steel cylinder that is built into
the support at C and subjected to the torques 𝑇𝐴 and 𝑇𝐵 .
(a) Determine the maximum shear stresses in segments AB and BC of
the cylinder;
(b) Compute the angle of rotation of end A.
Use 𝐺 = 12 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖 for steel.

Find:
(a) maximum shear stresses in
segments AB and BC Section Property.
(b) angle of rotation of end A 𝐽=
𝜋𝑑4
32
Solution: 𝜋(2 𝑖𝑛)4
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝐽= 32
Internal Torque 𝐽 = 1.5708 𝑖𝑛4
For AB
(a)
𝑇𝐴𝐵 𝑟
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐴𝐵 = 𝐽
12 𝑖𝑛
(900 𝑙𝑏∙𝑓𝑡 × 1 )(1 𝑖𝑛)
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐴𝐵 = 1.5708 𝑖𝑛 4
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐴𝐵 = 6875.48 𝑝𝑠𝑖
σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 𝑇𝐵𝐶 𝑟
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐵𝐶 =
900 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡 − 𝑇𝐴𝐵 = 0 𝐽
12 𝑖𝑛
(500 𝑙𝑏∙𝑓𝑡 × 1 )(1 𝑖𝑛)
𝑇𝐴𝐵 = 900 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐵𝐶 = 1.5708 𝑖𝑛 4
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝐵𝐶 = 3819.71 𝑝𝑠𝑖

For BC (b)
𝑇𝐿
𝜃𝐴 = σ 𝐽𝐺
𝑇𝐿 𝑇𝐿
𝜃𝐴 = + 𝐽𝐺
𝐽𝐺 𝐴𝐵 𝐵𝐶
12 𝑖𝑛 12 𝑖𝑛
(900 𝑙𝑏∙𝑓𝑡 × )(5𝑓𝑡 × )
1 1
𝜃𝐴 = 12 𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑛 4 (12 ×10
1.5708 12 𝑖𝑛6 𝑝𝑠𝑖)
+
(500 𝑙𝑏∙𝑓𝑡 × 1 )(3𝑓𝑡 × 1 )
1.5708 𝑖𝑛 4 (12 ×106 𝑝𝑠𝑖)
𝜃𝐴 = 0.045837 𝑟𝑎𝑑

σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 The positive result indicates that the

rotation vector of A is in the positive x-
900 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡 − 400𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡 − 𝑇𝐵𝐶 = direction that is 𝜃𝐴 is directed
0 counterclockwise when viewed from A
toward C.
𝑇𝐵𝐶 = 500 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡

10
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Power Transmission

In many practical applications, shafts are used to transmit power.

The power 𝑃 transmitted by a torque T rotating at the angular speed
𝜔 is given by
𝑃 = 𝑇𝜔
where 𝜔 is measured in radians per unit time.
If the shaft is rotating with a frequency of 𝑓 revolutions per unit time,
Sir Marvin Bartido

then
𝜔 = 2𝜋𝑓
Which gives
𝑃 = 𝑇(2𝜋𝑓)
Therefore, the torque can be expressed as
𝑃
𝑇=
2𝜋𝑓
In SI units, 𝑃 is usually measured in watts 1.0 𝑊 = 1.0 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚/𝑠 and
𝑃
𝑓 in hertz 1.0 𝐻𝑧 = 1.0 𝑟𝑒𝑣/𝑠 , 𝑇 = then determines the torque
2𝜋𝑓
𝑇 in 𝑁 ∙ 𝑚.
In the U.S. Customary units with 𝑃 is usually measured in horsepower
𝑃
1.0 ℎ𝑝 = 550 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡/𝑠 and 𝑓 in hertz, 𝑇 = calculates the torque
2𝜋𝑓
𝑇 in 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑓𝑡.

Note: 1 ℎ𝑝 = 746 𝑊
𝑁 ∙ 𝑚 = 𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑒
1 𝐵𝑇𝑈 𝐵𝑟𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑠ℎ 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑎𝑙 𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑡 = 1055.056 𝐽𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑒𝑠

11
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. A solid steel shaft AB shown in Fig. 5–13 is to be used to transmit 5

hp from the motor M to which it is attached. If the shaft rotates at 𝜔 =
175 𝑟𝑝𝑚 and the steel has an allowable shear stress of 𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 =
14.5 𝑘𝑠𝑖, determine the required diameter of the shaft.

Find: 𝑇𝜌
From 𝜏 =
Sir Marvin Bartido

Required diameter of the shaft 𝐽

𝑇𝜌
𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝐽
Solution: 1.80072 𝑖𝑛∙𝑘𝑖𝑝𝑠 (𝜌)
14.5 𝑘𝑠𝑖 = 𝜋(𝜌)4
The torque on the shaft is 2
determined 𝑃 = 𝑇𝜔. Expressing
P in foot-pounds per second and 𝜌 = 0.42919 𝑖𝑛
in we have
550 𝑓𝑡∙𝑙𝑏/𝑠
𝑃 = 5 ℎ𝑝 𝑑 = 2𝜌
1 ℎ𝑝
𝑃 = 2750𝑓𝑡 ∙ 𝑙𝑏/𝑠 𝑑 = 2(0.42919 𝑖𝑛)
𝑑 = 0.85839 𝑖𝑛
𝑟𝑒𝑣Τ 2𝜋 1 𝑚𝑖𝑛
𝜔 = 175 𝑚𝑖𝑛 1 𝑟𝑒𝑣 60 𝑠𝑒𝑐
𝜔= 18.326 𝑟𝑎𝑑Τ𝑠

Thus,
𝑃 = 𝑇𝜔
𝑙𝑏 𝑟𝑎𝑑Τ
2750𝑓𝑡 ∙ 𝑠
= 𝑇 18.326 𝑠
𝑇 = 150.06 𝑓𝑡 ∙ 𝑙𝑏
𝑇 = 1.80072 𝑖𝑛 ∙ 𝑘𝑖𝑝𝑠

12
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Statically Indeterminate Problems

A torsionally loaded shaft may be classified as statically indeterminate if

the moment equation of equilibrium, applied about the axis of the shaft, is not
adequate to determine the unknown torques acting on the shaft. An example of
this situation is shown in Fig. (a).As shown on the free-body diagram, Fig. (b), the
reactive torques at the supports A and B are unknown.
Sir Marvin Bartido

We require that
σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0
𝑇 − 𝑇𝐴 − 𝑇𝐵 = 0
In order to obtain another equation, we will use a necessary condition of
compatibility, or the kinematic condition. The compatibility requires the angle of
twist of one end of the shaft with respect to the other end to be equal to zero,
since the end supports are fixed. Therefore,
𝜃𝐴𝐵 = 0
Provided
𝑇𝐿
the material is linear elastic, we can apply the load–displacement
relation 𝜃 = to express the compatibility condition in terms of the unknown
𝐽𝐺
torques. Realizing that the internal torque in segment AC is +𝑇𝐴 and in segment
CB, it is −𝑇𝐵 , Fig. (c), we have
𝜃𝐴𝐶 − 𝜃𝐶𝐵 = 0
𝑇𝐴 𝐿𝐴𝐶 𝑇𝐵 𝐿𝐶𝐵
− =0
𝐽𝐺 𝐽𝐺

Procedure:
• Draw the required free-body diagrams and write the equations of equilibrium.
• Derive the compatibility equations from the restrictions imposed on the angles
of twist.
𝑇𝐿
• Use the torque-twist relationships in 𝜃 = to express the angles twist in the
𝐽𝐺
compatibility equations in terms of torques.
• Solve the equations and compatibility for torques.

13
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. The shaft in Fig. (a) consists of a 3-in-diameter aluminum segment

that is rigidly joined to a 2-in-diameter steel segment. The ends of the
shaft are attached to rigid supports. Calculate the maximum shear
stress developed in each segment when the torque 𝑇 = 10 𝑘𝑖𝑝 ∙ 𝑖𝑛 is
applied. Use 𝐺 = 4 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖 for aluminum and 𝐺 = 12 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖 for
steel.

Find: 𝑇𝐿 𝑇𝐿
=
𝐽𝐺 𝑠𝑡 𝐽𝐺
maximum shear stress developed 𝑇𝑠𝑡 (36 𝑖𝑛) 𝑎𝑙
in each segment =
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝜋(2 𝑖𝑛)4
12×106 𝑝𝑠𝑖
32𝑇𝑎𝑙 (72 𝑖𝑛)
𝜋(3 𝑖𝑛)4
Solution: 32
4×106 𝑝𝑠𝑖
Equilibrium 0.0000019099 𝑇𝑠𝑡 =
0.0000022635 𝑇𝑎𝑙
𝑇𝑠𝑡 = 1.18516 𝑇𝑎𝑙 (eq. 2)

Solving eq. 1 and eq. 2

σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 10000 − 𝑇𝑎𝑙 − (1.18516 𝑇𝑎𝑙 ) = 0
10000 𝑙𝑏 ∙ 𝑖𝑛 − 𝑇𝑎𝑙 − 𝑇𝑠𝑡 = 0 (eq. 𝑇𝑎𝑙 = 4576.32 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛
1)
This problem is statically 𝑇𝑠𝑡 = 1.18516(4576.32 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛)
indeterminate because there are 𝑇𝑠𝑡 = 5423.68 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛
two unknown torques (𝑇𝑎𝑙 and 𝑇𝑠𝑡 )
but only one independent
equilibrium equation. 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
𝑇𝑟
𝑠𝑡 𝐽
5423.68 𝑙𝑏∙𝑖𝑛(1 𝑖𝑛)
Compatibility 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑠𝑡 = 𝜋(2 𝑖𝑛)4
32
A second equation is obtained by 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 3452.82 𝑝𝑠𝑖
noting that the right end of the 𝑠𝑡
aluminum segment must rotate
through the same angle as the left 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
𝑇𝑟
end of the steel segment. 𝑎𝑙 𝐽
Therefore, the two segments must 4576.32 𝑙𝑏∙𝑖𝑛(1.5 𝑖𝑛)
have the same angle of twist; that 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑎𝑙 = 𝜋(3 𝑖𝑛)4
𝑇𝐿
is, 𝜃𝑠𝑡 = 𝜃𝑎𝑙 . From 𝜃 = , this 32
𝐽𝐺 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 𝑎𝑙 = 863.22 𝑝𝑠𝑖
condition becomes

14
 ASSESSMENT TASK

Assessment Task No. 4.1

Write the problem and the given illustrations. Show your complete
solution and box your final answer.
1. The pipe shown in Fig. (a) has an inner diameter of 80 mm and an
outer diameter of 100 mm. If its end is tightened against the support
at A using a torque wrench at B, determine the shear stress developed
in the material at the inner and outer walls along the central portion
of the pipe when the 80-N forces are applied to the wrench.
Sir Marvin Bartido

2. The four rigid gears, loaded as shown in Fig. (a) are attached to a 2-
in diameter steel shaft. Compute the angle of rotation of gear A
relative to gear D. Use 𝐺 = 12 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖 for the shaft.

15
 ASSESSMENT TASK

3. A solid steel shaft 3 m long is stressed to 30 MPa when twisted by

2°. Compute the required diameter for this condition and the power
transmitted (in HP) by the shaft if it rotates at 10 rad/sec.

4. The solid steel shaft shown in Fig. 5–23a has a diameter of 20 mm.
If it is subjected to the two torques, determine the reactions at the
fixed supports A and B.
Sir Marvin Bartido

16
 I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Solid Noncircular Shafts

Shafts that have a noncircular cross
section are not axisymmetric (unlike circular cross
section), and so their cross sections will bulge or
warp when the shaft is twisted. Evidence of this
can be seen from the way grid lines deform on a
shaft having a square cross section when the shaft
is twisted, Fig. 5–25. As a consequence of this
deformation the torsional analysis of noncircular
shafts becomes considerably more complicated
Sir Marvin Bartido

and will not be considered in this text.

The results of the analysis for square cross
sections, along with other results from the theory
of elasticity, for shafts having triangular and
elliptical cross sections, are reported in Table 5–1.
In all cases the maximum shear stress occurs at a 𝜃
point on the edge of the cross section that is
closest to the center axis of the shaft. In Table 5–1
these points are indicated as “dots” on the cross
sections. Also given are formulas for the angle of
twist of each shaft. By extending these results to a
shaft having an arbitrary cross section, it can also
be shown that a shaft having a circular cross
section is most efficient, since it is subjected to
both a smaller maximum shear stress and a
smaller angle of twist than a corresponding shaft
having a noncircular cross section and subjected
to the same torque.

17
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

For the rectangular bar in the figure that carries the torque 𝑇, results obtained
by numerical methods determine that the maximum shear stress 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 and the angle of
twist 𝜃 are given by
𝑇
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝐶1 𝑎𝑏 2
and
𝑇𝐿
𝜃=
𝐶2 𝑎𝑏 3 𝐺
where G is the shear modulus. As shown in the figure, 𝑎 and 𝑏 (𝑎 ≥ 𝑏) are the
cross-sectional dimensions of the bar and 𝐿 is its length. The coefficients 𝐶1 and 𝐶2 ,
which depend on the ratio 𝑎/𝑏, are listed in Table 3.1

18
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. The 6061-T6 aluminum shaft shown in Fig. 5–27 has a cross-sectional

area in the shape of an equilateral triangle. Determine the largest
torque T that can be applied to the end of the shaft if the allowable
shear stress is 𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 8 𝑘𝑠𝑖 and the angle of twist at its end is
restricted to 𝜃 = 0.02 𝑟𝑎𝑑. How much torque can be applied to a shaft
of circular cross section made from the same amount of material?

Circular Cross Section

If the same amount of aluminum is to
be used in making the same length of
shaft having a circular cross section,
then the radius of the cross section
can be calculated. We have
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝐴𝑐𝑖𝑟𝑐𝑙𝑒 = 𝐴𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑒
1
𝜋𝑟 2 = 2 1.5 1.5 sin 60°
Find:
𝑟 = 0.55689 𝑖𝑛
Largest torque T that can be applied
to the end of the shaft
Torque that can be applied to a shaft The limitations of stress and angle of
of circular cross section made from twist then require
the same amount of material 𝑇𝑟
𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝐽
Solution: 𝑙𝑏 𝑇(0.55689 𝑖𝑛)
8000 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 = 𝜋 0.55689 𝑖𝑛 4
By inspection, the resultant internal
torque at any cross section along the 2
shaft’s axis is also T. Using the 𝑇 = 2170.3 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛
formulas for 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 and 𝜃 in Table 5–1,
we require 𝑇𝐿
20𝑇 𝜃𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝐽𝐺
𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝑎3 𝑇(48 𝑖𝑛)
𝑙𝑏 20𝑇 0.02 = 𝜋 0.55689 𝑖𝑛 4
8000 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 = 3.7 (106 ) 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2
(1.5 𝑖𝑛)3 2
𝑇 = 1350 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛 𝑇 = 232.91 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛

Also Again, the angle of twist limits the

46𝑇𝐿 applied torque.
𝜃𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝑎4𝐺
46𝑇(48 𝑖𝑛)
0.02 = NOTE: Comparing this result
(1.5 𝑖𝑛)4 3.7 (106 ) 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2
(232.91 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛) with that given
𝑇 = 169.67 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛 above (169.67 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛), it is seen
that a shaft of circular cross section
can support 37% more torque than
By comparison, the torque is limited the one having a triangular cross
due to the angle of twist. section.

19
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

2. (a) Determine the largest torque that can be safely applied to the
rectangular steel bar if the maximum shear stress is limited to
120 𝑀𝑃𝑎. (b) Compute the corresponding angle of twist using 𝐺 =
80 𝐺𝑃𝑎 for steel.

Find: Since there is no value in the table

(a) largest torque corresponding to the computed
Sir Marvin Bartido

(b) angle of twist ratio, perform linear interpolation:

𝐶1 −0.267 0.282−0.267
=
3.33−3.0 4.0−3.0
Solution: 𝐶1 = 0.272
Since the bar has a rectangular
cross-section, determine first the
ratio 𝑎/𝑏: 𝐶2 −0.263
=
0.281−0.263
𝑎 20 𝑚𝑚 3.33−3.0 4.0−3.0
=
𝑏
𝑎
6 𝑚𝑚 𝐶2 = 0.269
= 3.33
𝑏
(a) For largest torque
𝑇
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
𝐶1 𝑎𝑏2
120 𝑁Τ𝑚𝑚2 =
𝑇
(0.272)(20 𝑚𝑚)(6 𝑚𝑚)2
𝑇 = 23500.8 𝑁 − 𝑚𝑚

(b) angle of twist

𝑇𝐿
3.33 𝐶1 𝐶2 𝜃=
𝐶2 𝑎𝑏3 𝐺
𝜃=
23500.8 𝑁−𝑚𝑚 (800 𝑚𝑚)
(0.269)(20 𝑚𝑚) 6 𝑚𝑚 3 (80000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2 )
𝜃 = 0.20223 𝑟𝑎𝑑

20
 I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Torsion of Thin-Walled Tubes

Although torsion of noncircular shaft requires advanced

methods of analysis, fairly simple approximate formulas are available
for thin-walled tubes. Such members are common in construction
where light weight is of paramount importance, such as automobiles
and airplanes.
Consider the thin-walled tube subjected to the torque 𝑇 shown
Sir Marvin Bartido

in the figure.

If 𝑡 is small compared to the overall dimensions of the cross-

section, the shear stress 𝜏 induced by torsion can be shown to be
almost constant through the wall thickness of the tube and directed
tangent to the middle surface. It is convenient to introduce the
concept of shear flow 𝒒, defined as the shear force per unit edge
length of the middle surface. Thus the shear flow is:
𝑞 = 𝜏𝑡
Note: This important result states that the product of the average
shear stress times the thickness of the tube (or shear flow) is the same
at each point on the tube’s cross-sectional area.
Since q is constant over the cross section, the largest average
shear stress must occur where the tube’s thickness is the smallest.

21
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Average Shear Stress

To solve for average shear stress, we have
𝑇
𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 =
2𝑡 𝐴𝑚
where
𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 = the average shear stress acting over a particular thickness of
the tube
𝑇 = the resultant internal torque at the cross section
𝑡 = the thickness of the tube where 𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 is to be determined
𝐴𝑚 = the mean area enclosed within the boundary of the centerline
of the tube’s thickness. 𝐴𝑚 is shown shaded in the figure.
Sir Marvin Bartido

Since 𝑞 = 𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑡, then the shear flow throughout the cross section
becomes
𝑇
𝑞=
2𝐴𝑚

Angle of Twist
To solve for angle of twist, we have:
𝑇𝐿 𝑑𝑠
𝜃= ර
4𝐴𝑚 2 𝐺 𝑡
where
𝑇 = the resultant internal torque at the cross section
𝐿 = length of the thin-walled tube
𝐴𝑚 = the mean area enclosed within the boundary of the centerline
of the tube’s thickness
𝐺 = shear modulus or modulus of rigidity
𝑑𝑠
‫ = 𝑡 ׯ‬the summation of the length of the median line in the mean
area over the corresponding thickness

22
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. Calculate the average shear stress in a thin-walled tube having a

circular cross section of mean radius 𝑟𝑚 = 5 𝑖𝑛. and thickness 𝑡 =
0.12 𝑖𝑛, which is subjected to a torque 𝑇 = 320 𝑘𝑖𝑝 − 𝑖𝑛. Also, what is
the relative angle of twist if the tube has a length 𝐿 = 14 𝑓𝑡? Use 𝐺 =
11 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖.

Find:
average shear stress
Sir Marvin Bartido

angle of twist

Solution:
Average Shear Stress
The mean area for the tube
is 𝐴𝑚 = 𝜋𝑟𝑚 2
𝑇
𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 =
2𝑡 𝐴𝑚
320 000 𝑙𝑏−𝑖𝑛
𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 =
2(0.12 𝑖𝑛) 𝜋(5 𝑖𝑛)2
𝜏𝑎𝑣𝑒 = 16976.53 𝑝𝑠𝑖

Angle of Twist
𝑇𝐿 𝑑𝑠
𝜃= 2 ‫ׯ‬
4𝐴𝑚 𝐺 𝑡

For circles, the length or the

circumference is 2𝜋𝑟
𝑑𝑠 2𝜋𝑟𝑚
‫ׯ‬ =
𝑡 𝑡

𝜃=
320000 𝑙𝑏−𝑖𝑛 (168 𝑖𝑛) 2𝜋(5 𝑖𝑛)
4 𝜋 5 𝑖𝑛 2 2 6 𝑙𝑏
(11×10 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 ) 0.12 𝑖𝑛
𝜃 = 0.051856 𝑟𝑎𝑑

23
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

2. The tube is made of C86100 bronze and has a rectangular cross

section as shown in Fig. 5–30a. If it is subjected to the two torques,
determine the average shear stress in the tube at points A and B. Also,
what is the angle of twist of end C? The tube is fixed at E.

Find: From Fig. (d), the mean area is

Average shear stress in the tube 𝐴𝑚 = (35 𝑚𝑚)(57 𝑚𝑚)
Sir Marvin Bartido

at points A and B 𝐴𝑚 = 1995 𝑚𝑚2

Angle of twist of end C

Solution:
Average Shear Stress
If the tube is sectioned through
points A and B, the resulting
free-body diagram is shown in
Fig. (b).
T
At point A, 𝑡𝐴 = 5𝑚𝑚, the average
shear stress is
𝑇
𝜏𝐴 =
2𝑡𝐴 𝐴𝑚
35000 𝑁−𝑚𝑚
𝜏𝐴 =
2(5 𝑚𝑚) (1995 𝑚𝑚2 )
𝜏𝐴 = 1.7544 𝑀𝑃𝑎

Solving the internal torque at At point B, 𝑡𝐵 = 3𝑚𝑚, the average

points A and B shear stress is
𝑇
σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 𝜏𝐵 =
2𝑡𝐵 𝐴𝑚
60 − 25 − 𝑇 = 0 35000 𝑁−𝑚𝑚
𝜏𝐵 =
2(3 𝑚𝑚) (1995 𝑚𝑚2 )
𝑇 = 35 𝑁 − 𝑚 𝜏𝐵 = 2.9240 𝑀𝑃𝑎

24
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

Angle of Twist
From the free-body diagrams in
Fig. (b) and (c), the internal
torques are
𝑇𝐷𝐸
𝑇𝐶𝐷

𝑑𝑠 2(57 𝑚𝑚) 2(35 𝑚𝑚)

‫ׯ‬ = +
𝑡 5 𝑚𝑚 3 𝑚𝑚
𝑑𝑠
‫𝑡 ׯ‬ = 46.133

Solving for the angle of twist at end C

𝑇𝐷𝐸 = 35 𝑁 − 𝑚 𝑇𝐿 𝑑𝑠
𝜃=σ 2 ‫ׯ‬
Sir Marvin Bartido

4𝐴𝑚 𝐺 𝑡
𝜃 = 𝜃𝐷𝐸 + 𝜃𝐶𝐷
σ 𝑀𝑥 = 0 𝜃
35000 𝑁 − 𝑚𝑚 (1500 𝑚𝑚)
= 46.133
60 − 𝑇𝐶𝐷 = 0 4(1995 𝑚𝑚2 )2 38000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2
60000 𝑁 − 𝑚𝑚 (500 𝑚𝑚)
𝑇𝐶𝐷 = 60 𝑁 − 𝑚 + 46.133
4(1995 𝑚𝑚2 )2 38000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2
𝜃 = 0.0062912 𝑟𝑎𝑑
Following the sign convention,
the two internal torques (angle
of twist) are both positive.

25
 ASSESSMENT TASK

Assessment Task No. 4.2

Write the problem and the given illustrations. Show your complete
solution and box your final answer.

1. The wooden bar consists of two segments, each of length L. One

segment has a square cross section of width d, the cross section of the
other segment is a circle of diameter d. The working stress for the
wood is 𝜏𝑤 = 5 𝑀𝑃𝑎 and the shear modulus is 𝐺 = 0.5 𝐺𝑃𝑎. Using
𝐿 = 0.6 𝑚 and 𝑑 = 50 𝑚𝑚, determine (a) the largest torque 𝑇 that
can be safely applied; and (b) the corresponding angle of twist for the
bar.
Sir Marvin Bartido

2. A steel tube with the cross section shown carries a torque 𝑇. The
tube is 6 ft and has a constant wall thickness of 3/8 in. (a) Compute
the torsional stiffness 𝑘 = 𝑇Τ𝜃 of the tube. (b) If the tube is twisted
through 0.5°, determine the shear stress in the wall of the tube. Use
𝐺 = 12 × 106 𝑝𝑠𝑖.

26
 ASSESSMENT TASK

3. An aluminum tube, 1.2m long, has the semicircular cross section

shown in the figure. (a) Determine the torque that causes a maximum
shear stress of 40 MPa, and (b) compute the corresponding angle of
twist of the tube. Use 𝐺 = 28 𝐺𝑃𝑎 for aluminum.
Sir Marvin Bartido

27
 I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

Flanged Bolt Coupling

If a machine or a structure requires long shafts or rods and if these shafts or
rods of long lengths might not be readily available, couplings or fittings are used.
A coupling is a device used to connect two shafts together at their ends for the
purpose of transmitting power. The primary purpose of couplings is to join two pieces of
rotating equipment.
Sir Marvin Bartido

A coupling bolt is a mechanical means of holding two halves of a flanged shaft

together to properly transfer the torque while maintaining shaft alignment.
In shaft connections called flanged bolt couplings, the torque is transmitted by
the shearing force P created in the bolts that is assumed to be uniformly distributed.

For any number of bolts n, the torque capacity of the coupling is

𝑇 = 𝑃𝑅𝑛
𝜋𝑑 2
𝑇= 𝜏 𝑅𝑛
4
where
𝑇 = Torque
𝑃 = Shear force
𝑅 = bolt circle
𝑛 = number of bolts

28
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

If a coupling has two concentric rows of bolts, the torque

capacity is
𝑇 = 𝑃1 𝑅1 𝑛1 + 𝑃2 𝑅2 𝑛2

where the subscript 1 refer to bolts on the outer circle and subscript 2
refer to bolts on the inner circle.
Sir Marvin Bartido

For rigid flanges, the shear deformations in the bolts are

proportional to their radial distances from the shaft axis. The shearing
strains are related by
𝛾1 𝛾2
=
𝑅1 𝑅2

𝜏
Using Hooke's law for shear, 𝐺 = , we have
𝜏1 𝜏2𝛾
=
𝐺1 𝑅1 𝐺2 𝑅2
or
𝑃1 𝑃2
ൗ𝐴 ൗ𝐴
1 2
=
𝐺1 𝑅1 𝐺2 𝑅2

If the bolts on the two circles have the same area, 𝐴1 = 𝐴2 , and
if the bolts are made of the same material, 𝐺1 = 𝐺2 , the relation
between 𝑃1 and 𝑃2 reduces to
𝑃1 𝑃2
= (𝐶𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑏𝑖𝑙𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛)
𝑅1 𝑅2

29
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. A flanged bolt coupling consists of ten 20-mm-diameter bolts spaced

evenly around a bolt circle 400 mm in diameter. Determine the torque
capacity of the coupling if the allowable shearing stress in the bolts is
40 MPa.

Find:
Torque capacity
Sir Marvin Bartido

Solution:
The shear force P considering
the allowable shearing stress
𝑃
𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝐴
𝑃
40 𝑁Τ𝑚𝑚2 = 𝜋
(20 𝑚𝑚)2
4
𝑃 = 12566.37 𝑁

Solving for the torque capacity

𝑇 = 𝑃𝑅𝑛
𝑇=
12566.37 𝑁 200 𝑚𝑚 10
𝑇 = 25132741.23 𝑁 − 𝑚𝑚
𝑇 = 25.132 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚

30
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

2. A flanged bolt coupling consists of eight 10-mm-diameter steel bolts

on a bolt circle 400 mm in diameter, and six 10-mm-diameter steel
bolts on a concentric bolt circle 300 mm in diameter, as shown in Fig. 3-
7. What torque can be applied without exceeding a shearing stress of
60 MPa in the bolts?

Find: 4712.39 𝑁 𝑃
200 𝑚𝑚
= 150 2𝑚𝑚
Torque 𝑃2 = 3534.29 𝑁
Sir Marvin Bartido

Solution: Solving for the maximum torque:

The torque capacity of the 𝑇=
flanged bolt coupling with two 4712.39 𝑁 200 𝑚𝑚 8 +
concentric rows of bolts is (3534.29 𝑁)(150 𝑚𝑚) (6)
𝑇 = 𝑃1 𝑅1 𝑛1 + 𝑃2 𝑅2 𝑛2 𝑇 = 10720685 𝑁 − 𝑚𝑚
𝑇 = 10.721 𝑘𝑁 − 𝑚
Compatibility
𝑃1 𝑃
= 𝑅2
𝑅1 2

For the allowable shear force P

based on the maximum shearing
stress, use the outer bolt circle
for a minimum shear force
𝑃
𝜏𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 = 𝐴1
1
𝑃1
60 𝑁Τ𝑚𝑚2 = 𝜋(10 𝑚𝑚)2
4
𝑃1 = 4712.39 𝑁

31
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

3. A flanged bolt coupling consists of six ½-in. steel bolts evenly spaced
around a bolt circle 12 in. in diameter, and four ¾-in. aluminum bolts
on a concentric bolt circle 8 in. in diameter. What torque can be applied
without exceeding 9000 psi in the steel or 6000 psi in the aluminum?
Assume Gst = 12 × 106 psi and Gal = 4 × 106 psi.

Find: Solving eq. 1 and 2.a

Torque 𝑇 = 7.0686(4.5 𝜏𝑎𝑙 ) +
7.0686𝜏𝑎𝑙
Solution: 𝑇=
The torque capacity of the flanged 7.0686 4.5(6000 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2) +
bolt coupling with two concentric 7.0686(6000 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2 )
rows of bolts is
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝑇 = 𝑃𝑠𝑡 𝑅𝑠𝑡 𝑛𝑠𝑡 + 𝑃𝑎𝑙 𝑅𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑎𝑙 𝑇 = 233263.8 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛

𝑇 = (𝜏𝑠𝑡 𝐴𝑠𝑡 )𝑅𝑠𝑡 𝑛𝑠𝑡 +
(𝜏𝑎𝑙 𝐴𝑎𝑙 )𝑅𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑎𝑙
Solving eq. 1 and 2.b
𝜋 0.5 𝑖𝑛 2
𝑇 = 𝜏𝑠𝑡 6 𝑖𝑛 6 + 𝑇 = 7.0686𝜏𝑠𝑡 +
4
𝜋 0.75 𝑖𝑛 2
𝜏𝑎𝑙
4
(4 𝑖𝑛)(4) 7.0686(0.22222 𝜏𝑠𝑡 )
𝑇 = 7.0686𝜏𝑠𝑡 + 7.0686𝜏𝑎𝑙 (eq. 1) 𝑇 = 7.0686(9000 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2 ) +
7.0686 0.22222 (9000 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2 )
Compatibility 𝑇 = 77754.46 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛
𝜏𝑠𝑡 𝜏
= 𝑎𝑙
𝐺𝑠𝑡 𝑅𝑠𝑡 𝐺𝑎𝑙 𝑅𝑎𝑙
𝜏𝑠𝑡
= Use the smallest value of T,
(12×106 𝑙𝑏ൗ𝑖𝑛2 )(6 𝑖𝑛)
𝜏𝑎𝑙 therefore
6 𝑙𝑏
(4×10 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 )(4 𝑖𝑛)
𝑇 = 77754.46 𝑙𝑏 − 𝑖𝑛
𝜏𝑠𝑡 = 4.5 𝜏𝑎𝑙 (eq. 2.a)
𝜏𝑎𝑙 = 0.22222 𝜏𝑠𝑡 (eq. 2.b)

32
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Helical Springs

Helical Spring is a wire of round rod of diameter d wound into a helix

of mean radius R.
Sir Marvin Bartido

When close-coiled helical spring with n number of turns, is subjected

to an axial load P produces the following stresses and deformation:
16𝑃𝑅 𝑑
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1 + 𝑃𝑅 [For light spring] and
𝜋𝑑 3
64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿= 𝐺𝑑 4

33
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Shear Stress
The maximum shearing stress is the sum of the direct shearing
stress τ1 = P/A and the torsional shearing stress τ2 = Tr/J, with T = PR.

P
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜏1 + 𝜏2
𝑃 𝑇𝜌
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝐴 + 𝐽
𝑃 𝑇𝑟
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋 + 𝜋 4
𝑑2 𝑑
4 32
𝑑
4𝑃 32𝑇
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋𝑑2 + 𝜋𝑑42
4𝑃 16 𝑃𝑅
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋𝑑2 + 𝜋𝑑3
16𝑃𝑅 𝑑
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋𝑑 3
1 + 4𝑅 [For light spring]
This formula neglects the curvature of the spring. This is used for light
spring where the ratio d/4R is small.

For heavy springs and considering the curvature of the spring, A.M.
Wahl formula a more precise, it is given by:
16𝑃𝑅 4𝑚−1 0.615
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = + [For heavy spring]
𝜋𝑑 3 4𝑚−4 𝑚
2𝑅 𝐷 4𝑚−1
where m 𝑚 = = is called the spring index and is the Wahl
𝑑 𝑑 4𝑚−4
factor.

34
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Deformation
The deformation of the bar considering only the effect of torsional shear stress
(neglecting the effect of direct shear) is
64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿=
𝐺𝑑 4
For one coil of the spring, consider that the load causes the spring to deflect
vertically by an amount dy.
Sir Marvin Bartido

𝑑𝑦
tan 𝜃 = 𝑅
If 𝜃 is very small tan 𝜃 = 𝜃
𝑑𝑦
𝜃= 𝑅

The angle of twist of one coil due to torque T:

𝑇𝐿
𝜃 = 𝐽𝐺
𝑑𝑦 𝑇𝐿
𝑅
= 𝐽𝐺
(𝑃𝑅)𝐿
𝑑𝑦 = ∗𝑅
𝐽𝐺
For one coil:
𝐿 = 2𝜋𝑅
𝜋
𝐽 = 32 𝑑 4

(𝑃𝑅)𝐿
𝑑𝑦 = ∗𝑅
𝐽𝐺
(𝑃𝑅)(2𝜋𝑅)
𝑑𝑦 = 𝜋 4 ∗𝑅
𝑑 𝐺
32
64𝑃𝑅 3
𝑑𝑦 =
𝐺𝑑 4

For total elongation 𝛿, multiply the elongation per coil by the number of turns
(n)
64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿=
𝐺𝑑 4

35
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Notice that the deformation δ is directly proportional to the applied load P. The
ratio of P to δ is called the spring constant k and is equal to
𝑃
𝑘=
𝛿
𝐺𝑑 4
𝑘=
64𝑅 3 𝑛

Springs in Series
For two or more springs with spring laid in series, the resulting spring
constant k is given by
Sir Marvin Bartido

1 1 1
= + +⋯
𝑘 𝑘1 𝑘2
where 𝑘1 , 𝑘2 are the spring constants for different springs

For the equivalent spring:

𝛿 = 𝛿1 + 𝛿2
𝑃 𝑃 𝑃
= 𝑘1 + 𝑘2 where: 𝑃1 = 𝑃, 𝑃2 = 𝑃
𝑘 1 2
1 1 1
= + +⋯
𝑘 𝑘1 𝑘2

36
 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,
that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16

Springs in Parallel
For two or more springs in parallel, the resulting spring constant is
𝑘 = 𝑘1 + 𝑘2 + ⋯
Sir Marvin Bartido

For the equivalent spring:

𝑃 = 𝑃1 + 𝑃2 + 𝑃3
𝑘𝛿 = 𝑘1 𝛿1 + 𝑘2 𝛿2 + 𝑘3 𝛿3 where 𝛿 = 𝛿1 = 𝛿2 = 𝛿3
𝑘 = 𝑘1 + 𝑘2 + 𝑘3 + ⋯

37
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

1. Determine the maximum shearing stress and elongation in a helical

steel spring composed of 20 turns of 20-mm-diameter wire on a mean
radius of 90 mm when the spring is supporting a load of 1.5 kN.
Assume a heavy spring. Use G = 83 GPa.

Given: Deformation
n = 20 turns 64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿= 𝐺𝑑 4
d = 20 mm 64(1500 𝑁) 90 𝑚𝑚 3 (20)
R = 90 mm 𝛿= (83000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2 )(20 𝑚𝑚)4
P = 1.5 kN 𝛿 = 105.40 𝑚𝑚
G = 83 GPa
Sir Marvin Bartido

Find:
Maximum shearing stress and
elongation

Solution:
Maximum shearing stress for
heavy spring:
16𝑃𝑅 4𝑚−1 0.615
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = +
𝜋𝑑 3 4𝑚−4 𝑚
2𝑅
𝑚=
𝑑
2(90 𝑚𝑚)
𝑚= 20 𝑚𝑚
𝑚=9

𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 =
16(1500 𝑁)(90 𝑚𝑚) 4(9)−1 0.615
+
𝜋(20 𝑚𝑚)3 4(9)−4 9
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 99.874 𝑀𝑃𝑎

38
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

2. A helical spring is fabricated by wrapping wire 3/4 in. in diameter

around a forming cylinder 8 in. in diameter. Compute the number of
turns required to permit an elongation of 4 in. without exceeding a
shearing stress of 18 ksi. Assume light spring. Use G = 12 × 106 psi.

Given: 64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿= 𝐺𝑑 4
D = 8 in 64(356.07 𝑙𝑏)(4 𝑖𝑛)3 𝑛
d = ¾ in 4 𝑖𝑛 = (12 × 106 𝑙𝑏ൗ
𝑖𝑛2
)(0.75 𝑖𝑛)4
𝛿 = 4 in 𝑛 = 10.41, say 10 turns
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 18 ksi
G = 12 × 106 psi Note: For n, it cannot be
rounded up because it will
Sir Marvin Bartido

exceed the allowable elongation.

Find:
number of turns

Solution:
From deformation:
64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
𝛿= 𝐺𝑑 4

Solve first for P from maximum

shear stress for light spring:
16𝑃𝑅 𝑑
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 1 + 4𝑅
𝜋𝑑 3
𝑘𝑖𝑝 16𝑃(4 𝑖𝑛)
18 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 = 𝜋(0.75 𝑖𝑛)3 ቂ1 +
0.75 𝑖𝑛
ቃ
4(4 𝑖𝑛)
𝑃 = 0.35607 𝑘𝑖𝑝𝑠
𝑃 = 356.07 𝑙𝑏

39
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

3. Two steel springs arranged in series as shown

in Fig. P-347 supports a load P. The upper spring has
12 turns of 25-mm-diameter wire on a mean radius
of 100 mm. The lower spring consists of 10 turns of
20-mm diameter wire on a mean radius of 75 mm. If
the maximum shearing stress in either spring must
not exceed 200 MPa, compute the maximum value
of P and the total elongation of the assembly.
Assume heavy spring. Use G = 83 GPa. Compute the
equivalent spring constant by dividing the load by
the total elongation.
Given:
For upper spring
n = 12 turns For lower spring
2𝑅 2(75 𝑚𝑚)
d = 25 mm 𝑚= = = 7.5
𝑑 20 𝑚𝑚
Sir Marvin Bartido

R = 100 mm
For lower spring 200 𝑁Τ𝑚𝑚24(7.5)−1
16𝑃(75 𝑚𝑚)
= 0.615
n = 10 turns 3 +
𝜋(20 𝑚𝑚) 4(7.5)−4 7.5
d = 20 mm 𝑃 = 3498.28 𝑁
R = 75 mm
Use the smaller value for the
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 200 Mpa maximum value of P, therefore
G = 83 GPa 𝑃 = 3498.28 𝑁

Find: Total elongation

Maximum value of P 𝛿 = 𝛿1 + 𝛿2
Total elongation 64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛 64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
Equivalent spring constant
𝛿= +
𝐺𝑑 4 1 𝐺𝑑 4 2
64(3498.28 𝑁)(100 𝑚𝑚)3 (12)
𝛿= +
(83000 𝑁ൗ )(25 𝑚𝑚)4
Solution: 𝑚𝑚2 3 (10)
64(3498.28 𝑁) 75𝑚𝑚
Maximum value of P from 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 for (83000 𝑁ൗ𝑚𝑚2 )(20 𝑚𝑚)4
heavy spring 𝛿 = 82.866 + 71.125
For upper spring 𝛿 = 153.99 𝑚𝑚
16𝑃𝑅 4𝑚−1 0.615
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋𝑑 3 4𝑚−4 + 𝑚
2𝑅 2(100 𝑚𝑚)
𝑚= = =8 Equivalent spring constant
𝑑 25 𝑚𝑚 𝑃
𝑘=
𝛿
𝑁Τ 16𝑃(100 𝑚𝑚) 4(8)−1 3498.28 𝑁
200 𝑚𝑚2 = ቂ + 𝑘=
0.615 𝜋(25 𝑚𝑚)3 4(8)−4 153.99 𝑚𝑚
ቃ 𝑘= 22.72 𝑁Τ𝑚𝑚
8
𝑃 = 5182.29 𝑁

40
 SAMPLE PROBLEMS

4. A rigid bar, pinned at O, is supported by two identical springs as

shown in Fig. P-348. Each spring consists of 20 turns of 3/4-in-diameter
wire having a mean diameter of 6 in. Determine the maximum load W
that may be supported if the shearing stress in the springs is limited to
20 ksi. Assume light spring.

Given: Maximum value of P from 𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 for

light spring
For both spring since they are 16𝑃𝑅 𝑑
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 𝜋𝑑 3 1 + 4𝑅
Sir Marvin Bartido

identical
𝑘𝑖𝑝 16𝑃(3 𝑖𝑛) 0.75 𝑖𝑛
n = 20 turns 20 ൗ𝑖𝑛2 = 1 + 4(3 𝑖𝑛)
𝜋(0.75 𝑖𝑛)3
d = ¾ in 𝑃 = 0.51975 𝑘𝑖𝑝𝑠
𝑃 = 519.75 𝑙𝑏
D = 6 in
𝜏𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 20 ksi Compatibility
From proportion:
𝛿1 𝛿2
Find: =
2 4
Maximum load W 𝛿1 =
𝛿2
2
64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛 1 64𝑃𝑅 3 𝑛
=2
𝐺𝑑 4 1 𝐺𝑑 4 2
Solution:
Since springs are identical, thus
𝑃
𝑃1 = 22

For this problem, the critical spring is

the one subjected to tension. Use
𝑃2 = 519.75 lb.
519.75 𝑙𝑏
𝑃1 = 2
Equilibrium 𝑃1 = 259.875 𝑙𝑏
σ 𝑀𝑂 = 0 ↻ +
−259.875 2 − (519.75) 4 +
−𝑃1 2 − 𝑃2 4 + 𝑊 7 = 0 𝑊 7 =0
𝑊 = 371.25 𝑙𝑏

41
 ASSESSMENT TASK

Assessment Task No. 4.3

Write the problem and the given illustrations. Show your complete
solution and box your final answer.

1. A flanged bolt coupling consists of ten steel ½-in.-diameter bolts

spaced evenly around a bolt circle 14 in. in diameter. Determine the
torque capacity of the coupling if the allowable shearing stress in the
bolts is 6000 psi.
2. A torque of 700 lb-ft is to be carried by a flanged bolt coupling that
consists of eight ½-in.-diameter steel bolts on a circle of diameter 12
in. and six ½-in.-diameter steel bolts on a circle of diameter 9 in.
Determine the shearing stress in the bolts.
Sir Marvin Bartido

3. Determine the maximum shearing stress and elongation in a bronze

helical spring composed of 20 turns of 1.0-in.-diameter wire on a
mean radius of 4 in. when the spring is supporting a load of 500 lb.
Assume heavy spring. Use G = 6 × 106 psi.
4. A rigid bar, hinged at one end, is supported by two identical springs
as shown in Fig. P-349. Each spring consists of 20 turns of 10-mm wire
having a mean diameter of 150 mm. Compute the maximum shearing
stress in the springs, assuming light spring. Neglect the mass of the
rigid bar.

42
 REFERENCES

Mechanics of Materials by R.C. Hibbeler (Eighth Edition)

Mechanics of Materials by Andrew Pytel (Second Edition)
https://mathalino.com/reviewer/mechanics-and-strength-of-
materials/flanged-bolt-couplings
https://mathalino.com/reviewer/mechanics-and-strength-of-
materials/helical-springs
Sir Marvin Bartido

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